The Inline Skater

The 55 kilometer ride can be difficult for some people. Everyone faces the challenge in their own way. Some train extensively for the weeks and months leading up to the ride, while others practice how to keep hydrated and pack an array of protein shakes and power drinks for the tour. While some believe finishing is the goal, others know that attempting the bike tour is success in itself. Alain Quintard is always up for the challenge, but his experience is a little different…he participates in the bike tour on inline skates.

Alain first bladed his way to the finish line in 2004, when the RONA MS Bike Tours was still the RONA MS Bike and Inline Skating Tour. An avid skater, he jumped on the opportunity to participate as it allowed for a longer skating time with well-stocked check points. What initially began as a hobby became a mission for personal reasons.

“I had a chat with our friend’s daughter who is affected by MS,” Alain said. “She was telling me a little bit more about some of the challenges. So I’m not ready to stop, not when I know some people are struggling like that.” This year, Alain, a local Toronto resident, participated in his eighth MS Bike Tour. In total, he has raised approximately $40,000 for multiple sclerosis.